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We develop an integrative conceptual framework that seeks to explain individual differences in digital skills. Building on practice engagement theory, this framework views the continued usage of digital technologies at work and in everyday life (ICT use) as the key prerequisite for the acquisition of digital skills. At the same time, the framework highlights that ICT use is itself contingent upon individual and contextual preconditions, most notably literacy skills. We apply this framework to data from two recent German large-scale studies (total N 5,281) that offer objective measures of adults' digital skills. Findings support our framework's view of ICT use as a key prerequisite for digital skills. Moreover, they demonstrate that literacy skills have strong associations with digital skills, largely by virtue of their indirect associations through ICT use. By comparison, regional digital cultures evince only limited explanatory power for individual differences in digital skills.

Arguing that social capital is embedded in social context, explored are specific societal interaction settings to shed light on social capital generation & social capital's interrelatedness with political & social institutions. Focus is on two very distinct localities in the Netherlands, & Robert Putnam's approach to social capital underpins the analysis of a wide range of indicators. Drawing on 1996/97 survey data from 273 respondents in neighborhoods of Asten & Dordrecht & other sources of information, local patterns & levels of social capital, the impact of individual differences on local social capital, & the contextual & cultural correlates of differences in local social capital are examined. Findings reveal the existence of generalized social capital among the better off & a degree of network capital among the less well off who depend on their neighborhood. 2 Tables, 16 References. J. Zendejas

Investigates the relation of organizational characteristics to levels of employees' earnings, drawing on data from the 1991 National Organizations Study. It is generally found that the larger the organization, the higher the level of earnings across establishments. Further, earnings are higher in organizations that are more differentiated & formalized. The presence of internal labor markets is most strongly associated with higher earnings. In terms of gender differences, the long-standing conclusion that women earn appreciably less than men is supported. Separation of organizational & individual effects on earnings proved impossible, because the research design employed data from only one respondent in most organizations. It is suggested that a more comprehensive explanation of the relation between organization size & earnings level will have to take into account the possibility that size affects the dispersion of earnings as well as their average levels. 2 Tables, 1 Appendix. D. M. Smith

"Partisanship and Political Cognition" published on by Oxford University Press.

Examines the nature, challenges, & implications of the new cultural politics of difference (CPD). The distinctive characteristics of CPD are (1) a rejection of homogeneity in favor of diversity, multiplicity, & heterogeneity; (2) the privileging of the concrete, specific, & particular; & (3) emphasis on the context, flexibility, & provisional nature of knowledge. It is argued that CPD represents a creative response to the precise circumstances of the present historical moment in which various groups & individuals seek transformation & deconstruction of marginalizing discourses, institutions, & practices. However, many proponents of CPD face a continual struggle between their dual commitments to deconstruction of institutional borders & their own roles as academics or administrators within these institutions. These cultural critics must also confront an intellectual challenge: the synthesis of academic knowledge & action with the world of history, culture, & society. Advocates of CPD must attempt to forge alliances & solidarity while simultaneously asserting the importance of difference, personal autonomy & agency, & individual freedom. 1 Figure. T. Sevier

Scottish devolution stands as an example for change within the UK constitution & its politics. As a model of democracy, the Scottish Parliament has committed itself to exploring new methods of consultation, participation, & consensus building; the idea of plural & multilayered democracy in Europe; & developing a stronger relationship between citizens & government. It is working to achieve gender balance in the Parliament, allowing petitions by individual citizens, & increasing communication & education through technology. Still, it is subject to the negative feelings left over from 20th-century prejudice against politicians & their activities & the influence of the media in the hands of owners & editors committed to neoliberal & economistic views. Scottish voters also express some disillusionment & disappointment, not as a lack of support for its existence, but in the desire for greater change. The devolution process must boldly reach its goals or face the discredit that most other elected governments in this post-political age have experienced. L. A. Hoffman